Winter Court 5

Court ChamberThe private practice chamber to the Daimyo of the Dragon has been converted to the court chamber. A dais has been constructed and Mirumoto Shikei’s personal chair, reserved for the Emperor, substitutes the Throne. The east wall is bannered with the colors and mon of all nine Great Clans with the Dragon banner hanging closest to the dais. The Scorpion banner is furthest with the others mixed somewhere in between. The room is somewhat crowded during court and courtiers will find themselves sitting uncomfortably close to their rivals.

Imperial OfficesHere, what remains of the Emperor’s inner counsel resides. Humbly furnished by comparison to other courts any have been to, the accommodations are at least clean and carry easy access to the balcony.

BalconyOut of the way from the rest of court, the balcony offers a splendorous view of the castle grounds and the lands far beyond. Courtiers can get fresh air here at the mere price of some bitter chills.

Entrance HallBeyond a pair of ancient iron doors, a world of stone and light rises to meet the wooden ceiling. Twenty-five pillars set into a square all stand leafed in gold. They reflect and illuminate the few torches set across the chamber At the far end, tables are set where some art and ikebana have been placed. It is here, the Game of Letters is played.